Introduction

War has far-reaching affects. Not only does it affect the soldiers on the front lines, but it also affects art, literature, journalism, and society. Many artists and writers have sought to capture the devastation brought on by war, the reasons wars start in the first place, and the effects that are still felt once the actual fighting is over. Political commentary is also a popular element in postwar fiction.

For this exercise, you read a selection about post World War II literature and a selection from George Orwell’s novel Animal Farm. Then you will write a short poem or a one- to two-paragraph prose commentary on a current social issue that is important to you. You may wish to use allegory, parody, or satiric elements.

Destination Titles

Fiction After World War II
(http://encarta.msn.com/encyclopedia_761558048_6/English_Literature.html)
Animal Farm
(http://www.teachervision.fen.com/politics/fiction/3307.html)

Directions

Start with “English Literature” and scroll down to “Fiction After World War II.” Read this section. After you have finished with that, go to Animal Farm and read the Introduction and the Overview. Read the remainder of the article if it interests you.

1.	Once you have finished reading each of these selections, write prose or a short poem as a commentary on a current issue that is important to you.